TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A home security camera captured the moment a dog accidentally started a kitchen fire prompting the township’s Fire Prevention Bureau to highlight the risks pets can pose in the home and to mark National Pet Fire Safety Day with a warning to residents.
That incident happened a year ago in Colorado, but the FPB used the video to demonstrate that, yes, even man’s best friend can accidentally burn down a house. And, it can happen in Toms River too.
According to the bureau and local reports at the time, the fire began when the dog unintentionally activated the stove, igniting materials left nearby. No injuries were reported, but officials used the incident to raise awareness on how pets can be involved in household fires.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that pets or wild animals are responsible for starting approximately 750 accidental home fires in the U.S. each year. These incidents often involve cooking equipment, fireplaces, space heaters, and open flames.
In a public message shared Friday, the Toms River Fire Prevention Bureau offered several safety tips for pet owners, including keeping pets away from stoves and hot appliances, securing loose cords, and never leaving open flames unattended.
“Make sure you have a plan for your pets in case of a fire and always have working smoke alarms in your home,” the bureau advised.
National Pet Fire Safety Day, observed on July 15, aims to educate the public on how to protect pets from fire hazards and reduce the risk of fires caused by animals.